Rocky

Before we met My mind was set On a female pet As I sat on the ground Among roughhousing puppies all around Hoping that I would be found Soon, I noticed, off to the side Staring at me with dark eyes wide A very quiet, dignified little guy Barely hearing his little grunts and sighs I bent down and we looked into each other’s eyes. I immediately knew he was my perfect prize. Brought him home Never left him alone Devoured delicious doggy bone During my dark days of depression Never once did he question My Kit Kat obsession. His dark eyes looked into mine As if to say, you’ll be just fine We have plenty of time. Ten good years, the last one bad Vet said he’ll be blind soon (PRA), so sad Something I can’t fix, really mad Trusting eyes now opaque, Every joint and muscle aches; Oh, how my heart breaks. Never a whimper, never a sound No longer does he strut around With paws floating above the ground. Squirrels he once furiously chased No longer have to make haste Each step now cautiously placed. His aging confusion is stressful for us He’s embarrassed by all the fuss I’m so grateful for his trust I miss his dark eyes looking into mine I wish I could say you’ll be just fine We have plenty of time. SassyLady September 11-12, 2015 This poem was written for the Pet Contest Rocky is a silver and black mini-schnauzer purchased from reputable breeder Contracted Valley Fever moving to AZ, which attacks immune system, joints and retinas Developed stomach ulcers, blindness, limping, loss of sense of smell And loss of eyesight caused by PRA, now have genetic wisdom